Orthogarantiana Ammonite Fossil Jurassic Bajocian Dorset UK Genuine Authentic COA

Description

Authentic Jurassic Fossil from Dorset, UK

This Orthogarantiana ammonite fossil is an authentic specimen from the Bajocian stage of the Middle Jurassic, discovered in Oborne Wood, near Sherborne in Dorset, United Kingdom. Dorset is renowned for its Jurassic Coast and inland fossil localities, and this specimen represents a remarkable example of Jurassic marine life. The photographs show the exact specimen you will receive, with a 1 cm scale cube included for size reference. Each fossil comes with a Certificate of Authenticity, confirming it is 100% genuine.

Geological Age and Provenance

The ammonite dates back to the Bajocian stage of the Jurassic Period, approximately 170–168 million years ago. During this period, much of Dorset lay beneath shallow epicontinental seas, part of the extensive Tethys Ocean system. These warm, nutrient-rich waters supported an abundance of ammonites and other marine organisms. Sediments deposited in these shallow seas formed clays and limestones that provided the ideal environment for fossil preservation. The deposits of Oborne Wood are especially known for yielding ammonites that help refine the geological timescale of the Middle Jurassic.

Species Identification and Classification

Orthogarantiana belongs to the class Cephalopoda, order Ammonitida, superfamily Stephanoceratoidea, and family Stephanoceratidae. Ammonites within this genus are distinctive Bajocian fossils, valued by paleontologists for their stratigraphic significance. The genus is widely distributed across Europe, making it a reliable index fossil used for dating and correlating Bajocian marine deposits. This makes the specimen not only a striking collector’s piece but also an important scientific resource.

Morphology and Distinctive Traits

This ammonite displays the characteristic features of Orthogarantiana. Its shell is planispiral, with strong ribbing running across the flanks and converging on the venter, producing a rhythmic and bold ornamentation. The whorls are relatively compressed, giving the shell a sleek, elegant appearance. These ribs reinforced the shell structure and enhanced hydrodynamic performance, allowing the ammonite to thrive in open marine environments. Its well-defined ribbing and coiling make it a visually attractive fossil and an excellent representation of Bajocian ammonites.

Scientific and Stratigraphic Importance

Ammonites such as Orthogarantiana are essential index fossils for the Bajocian stage. Their limited stratigraphic ranges and distinct morphological features allow paleontologists to subdivide and correlate rock strata across large regions. This makes them crucial for reconstructing Jurassic paleoenvironments and refining the global timescale. Owning a specimen like this connects collectors to the very tools scientists use to decode Earth’s history and evolutionary patterns within cephalopods.

Condition and Presentation

The fossil has been professionally prepared to reveal its natural details, with ribbing, shell whorls, and overall morphology preserved in excellent condition. It is a one-of-a-kind specimen, never a cast or reproduction. The photographs provided are of the exact fossil you will receive, ensuring complete transparency. Its preservation makes it suitable for display, educational purposes, or as part of a research collection.

Guarantee of Authenticity

All of our fossils are 100% genuine, responsibly sourced, and scientifically identified. Each specimen is supplied with a Certificate of Authenticity. This Orthogarantiana ammonite fossil from Oborne Wood, Sherborne, Dorset, is a rare and scientifically significant example of Bajocian ammonites, making it an outstanding addition for fossil collectors, natural history enthusiasts, and academic collections.